Dear Jack,

I'm wishing the best for you and your family during this difficult time. Every Monday, I'll be sending you updates on what the COVID-19 situation looks like in Virginia, and the latest news on what we're doing to stop the spread and help those who are impacted by the virus.

Estimation of COVID-19 Impact in Virginia

Today, Governor Northam held a press briefing with COVID-19 researcher's from UVA's Biocomplexity Institute. While scientists are still developing models based on the best possible science, there were two main points from their presentation that I wanted to pass on:

1. Social distancing is working. We must keep adhering to the Governor's executive orders regarding social distancing and gathering in large groups (>10 people).

2. If we continue as we are today (i.e. staying at home and socially distancing), Virginia will have enough medical resources to handle this crisis.

I know that times are hard right now, but we are doing the right thing. Stay home whenever you can -- it saves lives.

May/June Elections

Last week, Governor Northam requested that town elections in May be postponed until the November election, and has directed that June primary elections will be postponed by two weeks until June 23rd. The General Assembly will be voting on whether to postpone the May municipal elections at our reconvene session on April 22nd.

Pandemic Unemployment Assistance

Starting next week, workers who are collecting unemployment benefits in Virginia will be eligible for an additional $600 per week in assistance via the federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Program. In addition, independent contractors, gig workers, and self-employed people are now eligible for benefits under the new guidelines. You can read more here: https://www.vec.virginia.gov/node/11790

Loudoun Rental Assistance

Loudoun County has passed a rental assistance program for low income families who have lost work or been furloughed in response to COVID-19. A family of four making 70% of the state median income, or approximately $60k, is now eligible to receive assistance for up to three months' rent. You can read more here: https://www.loudoun.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=5698

COVID-19 in Virginia Hospitals

The Virginia Hospital and Healthcare Association (VHHA) has put up a COVID-19 dashboard showing the status of Virginia hospitals in dealing with COVID-19. Here, you can get information about the current number of COVID-19 hospitalizations, ventilators, and beds available in our hospital system, as well as the number of hospitals currently having difficulty supplying personal protective equipment (PPE).

Coronavirus Numbers (4/13):

SD13/Virginia Coronavirus Updates

We have launched a new page on my website, senatorbell.com, for COVID-19 information: https://www.senatorbell.com/covid-19 

Here, you can find important health and safety updates, as well as resources for workers and employers impacted by COVID-19.

The Commonwealth of Virginia also has its own website for COVID-19 information and updates: 

http://www.vdh.virginia.gov/coronavirus/

Here, you can follow the latest updates on what Virginia is doing to combat the spread of COVID-19 and help those affected by the crisis.

As always, please reach out to my office if you need any assistance. My Senate email address is [email protected] and my in-district phone number is (571) 367-9080. I hope you and your family are able to stay safe and healthy during these challenging times.

Sincerely,